Soundstreams is a global leader in the presentation of innovative, carefully curated, and immersive musical experiences. Artistic Director Lawrence Cherney is committed to showcasing the work of living Canadian and global composers/musicians, often with a focus on bringing to focus contemporary conversations to our communities.

Founded in 1982, Soundstreams’ curatorial platform has introduced audiences to over 170 works from some of the finest and most groundbreaking composers of our age, from R. Murray Schafer to Nicole Lizée.

Soundstreams’ commitment to Canadian music extends beyond our Main Stage series in Toronto, where we often pair the music of local composers with their global counterparts. Soundstreams’ work is also sought after by the world’s most prestigious festivals and venues. Major touring programs bring to light under-represented voices, including the LGBTQQIP2SAA community with Musik für das Ende by Claude Vivier, refugee communities in Hell’s Fury, The Hollywood Songbook with music by Hanns Eisler, and the first operas written in the Indigenous languages of Cree and Sámi, Two Odysseys: Pimooteewin / Gállábártnit. Soundstreams is a three-time JUNO nominee and recipient of the Lieutenant Governor’s Award for the Arts.

Soundstreams also serves a broad community of music lovers through accessible outreach and education programs. Encounters is a free discovery series featuring performances, discussions, and audience participation; RBC Bridges helps talented composers from around the world launch their careers and New Voices provides emerging curators with the opportunity to curate a mainstage concert as part of Soundstreams' season.